Albert Lea Home Inspection: Foundation Inspection – (507) 721-0122

Most home buyers are careful to have a home inspector check for foundation problems before they sign purchase papers. But that shouldn’t be the last check. Recognizing early warning signs of trouble can forestall damage that costs tens of thousands of dollars or even jeopardizes the full value of a house.

Foundations are critical to the integrity of a home or building. A cracked foundation can signal an impending collapse especially if an earthquake disrupts the ground. Having a foundation inspected every several years can save homeowners money in the long run. Having foundations repaired and re-leveled before putting a property on the market can increase the value of the property significantly.

A certified home inspector often works to assess a property before a potential purchase. However, home inspectors can also do routine inspections every few years to make sure no major damage happens to a home. The foundation is perhaps the most critical component of a home.

A few things home inspectors look for in regards to foundations include:
• Slab Cracks
• Foundation cracks
• Bulging
• Flood damage
• Potential for water damage from lack of gutters or water spouts as well as lawns

Inspectors will also look for missing elements that can weaken the structural integrity of a foundation. These include:
• Missing posts
• Missing piers

A third element to be aware of is the landscape surrounding the house or property such as:
• Does the property sit on a slope?
• Is the area rocky?
• Does the property sit on or near a fault line?
• How good is the natural drainage around the property?
• Does the house sit near a river that has the potential to flood?

Once an inspector has assessed all the risk factors, he/she will be able to determine if the foundation is sound or if repairs are needed. A foundation repair should last the life of the building, so homeowners should only have to worry about this expense once. Foundation repair services may also suggest measures to prevent further wear if major repairs are not needed. The number one preventative measure is to keep the foundation dry. This means installing and cleaning gutters and water spouts, making sure sprinklers aren’t spouting water against the home and having grass and bushes away from the home so water doesn’t seep through.

An unstable foundation, in worst-case scenarios can mean a collapse of the home and harm to animals in the home, family members and children. In the event of an earthquake, there may be no time to get out, so having a structurally sound property is crucial. Investing in a foundation inspection every few years can help prevent major damage to the home in the future. The cost is minimal for an inspection but the benefits are significant. Ensure the safety of your home and your family with a home inspection.